OMHC says farewell, happy retirement

ODESSA – "This isn't goodbye, this is see you again soon," say the administration and staff of the Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center, as three exemplary long-term employees start their retirement journey. The community is invited to celebrate this new phase of their lives on Wednesday, August 25, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the town park.

Barbara Schlimmer (Clinic Director), Beth Schafer (Physical Therapy Director) and Phyllis Sebesta (NAC/Scopes NAC) will be recognized for their years of service to Odessa's medical facilities and the community. Persons attending are asked to wear masks and maintain social distancing during the reception.

Barbara Schlimmer has been at OMHC for 43 years. According to her colleagues, she is one of the most dedicated and caring employees the district has ever had. She is always willing to fill in whenever asked, no matter the need. Her steadfast, positive attitude brings an ever-present smile to her face and readiness to share a comforting hug. In addition to her work at the local clinic, she has served for several years as treasurer of the Washington Rural Health Association. She is also very involved in Odessa community happenings and promotes the town whenever the opportunity presents itself. With her kind heart, her positive, can-do attitude and her commitment to serving others, the administration is happy to share that she has agreed to continue helping new patients enroll in Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance programs.

Phyllis Sebesta has been a part of OMHC for 41 years. She has a strong dedication to her patients and always strives to ensure they have the best care and experience during their stay. Phyllis has been one of the NAC leaders at OMHC, mentoring new nursing staff and helping them understand the components and importance of quality care. When patients come to OMHC seeking care, they are comforted knowing they are in good hands. She is an involved member in the community and will continue her active roles into retirement. We are fortunate that she is staying on in a limited capacity to assist with training her Scopes NAC replacement.

Beth Schafer joined the OMHC family in 1986 as a Registered Physical Therapist and will soon celebrate her 35-year anniversary. She has been instrumental in growing the Physical Therapy department from the ground up. Both staff and patients value the caring and healing hands she has provided over the years. She exhibits a positive attitude and is known for the respect and dignity she demonstrates with all interactions. The administration is pleased that she is staying on in the Physical Therapy department to provide coverage in a supplemental capacity.

Please join us for light refreshments August 25 at the town park from 4 to 6 p.m. to celebrate Barb, Phyllis and Beth.

"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from." T.S. Elliott